Roll Out Strategy Analysis Database Application

ABSTRACT

A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for developing training for a client. Training delivery requirements for a client are identified. Assessment information is gathered. A training curriculum is developed based on the training delivery requirements and the assessment information. An amount of time required to complete the training is estimated to form a delivery estimate. The delivery estimate is translated into an estimate of resources required for development of training materials for the training. Verification is performed to verify that the client receives the training materials for delivery to an end user.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation of and claims the benefit of priorityto U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/519,550, filed on Sep. 12, 2006and entitled “Roll Out Strategy Analysis Database Application”, thecontents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to an improved data processingsystem. More particularly, the present invention relates to a computerimplemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code fordelivering training to a client organization.

2. Description of the Related Art

Companies, organizations, and other enterprises often roll out newtechnology, policies, and procedures. Each time a change is made, amajor training effort is generally required to teach the employees howto implement and function with the change. In some cases, individualsmust be retrained how to use a technology. In other cases, job roles maychange extensively, requiring a large-scale training initiative.

Consultants or other groups may be hired to perform the training effort.In many cases, the training effort requires complex decisions based onfactors, such as cost, schedule, complexity, technical requirements,training requirements, job roles, job tasks, customer support, andprobabilities of success and failure. Performing the training, based onall of these factors, may be very complex. Traditionally, such trainingefforts have been done using pen and paper requiring large amounts ofindividual time and effort. Additionally, keeping the clientorganization apprised of cost, status, and schedule requires additionalreporting and effort.

Attempts have been made to use existing spreadsheet applications toorganize the training information. Because of the large amount ofrelated information, the spreadsheets become extremely complex veryquickly requiring time and effort to effectively track the trainingeffort. Most individuals do not have the spreadsheet development skillsrequired for such a complicated solution.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The illustrative embodiments provide a computer implemented method,apparatus, and computer usable program code for developing training fora client. Training delivery requirements for a client are identified.Assessment information is gathered. A training curriculum is developedbased on the training delivery requirements and the assessmentinformation. An amount of time required to complete the training isestimated to form a delivery estimate. The delivery estimate istranslated into an estimate of resources required for development oftraining materials for the training. Verification is performed to verifythat the client receives the training materials for delivery to an enduser.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the illustrativeembodiments are set forth in the appended claims. The illustrativeembodiments, themselves, however, as well as a preferred mode of use,further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood byreference to the following detailed description of an illustrativeembodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,wherein:

FIG. 1 is a pictorial representation of a data processing system inwhich the illustrative embodiments may be implemented;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a data processing system in which theillustrative embodiments may be implemented;

FIG. 3 is a diagram of a data processing system in which theillustrative embodiments may be implemented;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a Roll Out Strategy Analysis databaseapplication in accordance with the illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart for Roll Out Strategy Analysis process steps inaccordance with the illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for a general Roll Out Strategy Analysis processin accordance with the illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for a process for setting up a training project inaccordance with the illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for a process for performing organizationfunctions in accordance with the illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for a process for developing curriculum inaccordance with the illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart for a process for providing developmentestimations in accordance with the illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 11A is an example of a graphical user interface that may be used bya business or consultant to perform administrative functions;

FIG. 11B is an example of a graphical user interface that may be used tocustomize a critical factor rating scale in accordance with theillustrative embodiments;

FIG. 11C is an example of a graphical user interface that may be used tocustomize training delivery strategies in accordance with theillustrative embodiments;

FIG. 11D is an example of a graphical user interface that may be used tocustomize the strategy grid in accordance with the illustrativeembodiments;

FIG. 11E is an example of a graphical user interface that may be used toestablish development time values in accordance with the illustrativeembodiments;

FIG. 11F is an example of a graphical user interface that may be used todetermine resource requirements in accordance with the illustrativeembodiments;

FIG. 11G is an example of a graphical user interface that may be used togenerate reports for the phases and steps of a training project inaccordance with the illustrative embodiments;

FIG. 12 is an exemplary list of job roles and job tasks in accordancewith the illustrative embodiments;

FIGS. 13A-13B are exemplary lists of training strategies in accordancewith the illustrative embodiments; and

FIGS. 14A-14B are exemplary strategy grids in accordance with theillustrative embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

With reference now to the figures and in particular with reference toFIGS. 1-2, exemplary diagrams of data processing environments areprovided in which illustrative embodiments may be implemented. It shouldbe appreciated that FIGS. 1-2 are only exemplary and are not intended toassert or imply any limitation with regard to the environments in whichdifferent embodiments may be implemented. Many modifications to thedepicted environments may be made.

With reference now to the figures, FIG. 1 depicts a pictorialrepresentation of a network of data processing systems in whichillustrative embodiments may be implemented. Network data processingsystem 100 is a network of computers in which embodiments may beimplemented. Network data processing system 100 contains network 102,which is the medium used to provide communications links between variousdevices and computers connected together within network data processingsystem 100. Network 102 may include connections, such as wire, wirelesscommunication links, or fiber optic cables.

In the depicted example, server 104 and server 106 connect to network102 along with storage unit 108. In addition, clients 110, 112, and 114connect to network 102. These clients 110, 112, and 114 may be, forexample, personal computers or network computers. In the depictedexample, server 104 provides data, such as boot files, operating systemimages, and applications to clients 110, 112, and 114. Clients 110, 112,and 114 are clients to server 104 in this example. Network dataprocessing system 100 may include additional servers, clients, and otherdevices not shown.

In the depicted example, network data processing system 100 is theInternet with network 102 representing a worldwide collection ofnetworks and gateways that use the Transmission ControlProtocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) suite of protocols to communicatewith one another. At the heart of the Internet is a backbone ofhigh-speed data communication lines between major nodes or hostcomputers, consisting of thousands of commercial, governmental,educational and other computer systems that route data and messages. Ofcourse, network data processing system 100 also may be implemented as anumber of different types of networks, such as for example, an intranet,a local area network (LAN), or a wide area network (WAN). FIG. 1 isintended as an example, and not as an architectural limitation fordifferent embodiments.

With reference now to FIG. 2, a block diagram of a data processingsystem is shown in which illustrative embodiments may be implemented.Data processing system 200 is an example of a computer, such as server104 or client 110 in FIG. 1, in which computer usable code orinstructions implementing the processes may be located for theillustrative embodiments.

In the depicted example, data processing system 200 employs a hubarchitecture including a north bridge and memory controller hub (MCH)202 and a south bridge and input/output (I/O) controller hub (ICH) 204.Processor 206, main memory 208, and graphics processor 210 are coupledto north bridge and memory controller hub 202. Graphics processor 210may be coupled to the MCH through an accelerated graphics port (AGP),for example.

In the depicted example, local area network (LAN) adapter 212 is coupledto south bridge and I/O controller hub 204 and audio adapter 216,keyboard and mouse adapter 220, modem 222, read only memory (ROM) 224,universal serial bus (USB) ports and other communications ports 232, andPCI/PCIe devices 234 are coupled to south bridge and I/O controller hub204 through bus 238, and hard disk drive (HDD) 226 and CD-ROM drive 230are coupled to south bridge and I/O controller hub 204 through bus 240.PCI/PCIe devices may include, for example, Ethernet adapters, add-incards, and PC cards for notebook computers. PCI uses a card buscontroller, while PCIe does not. ROM 224 may be, for example, a flashbinary input/output system (BIOS). Hard disk drive 226 and CD-ROM drive230 may use, for example, an integrated drive electronics (IDE) orserial advanced technology attachment (SATA) interface. A super I/O(SIO) device 236 may be coupled to south bridge and I/O controller hub204.

An operating system runs on processor 206 and coordinates and providescontrol of various components within data processing system 200 in FIG.2. The operating system may be a commercially available operating systemsuch as Microsoft® Windows® XP (Microsoft and Windows are trademarks ofMicrosoft Corporation in the United States, other countries, or both).An object oriented programming system, such as the Java™ programmingsystem, may run in conjunction with the operating system and providescalls to the operating system from Java programs or applicationsexecuting on data processing system 200 (Java and all Java-basedtrademarks are trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the UnitedStates, other countries, or both).

Instructions for the operating system, the object-oriented programmingsystem, and applications or programs are located on storage devices,such as hard disk drive 226, and may be loaded into main memory 208 forexecution by processor 206. The processes of the illustrativeembodiments may be performed by processor 206 using computer implementedinstructions, which may be located in a memory such as, for example,main memory 208, read only memory 224, or in one or more peripheraldevices.

The hardware in FIGS. 1-2 may vary depending on the implementation.Other internal hardware or peripheral devices, such as flash memory,equivalent non-volatile memory, or optical disk drives and the like, maybe used in addition to or in place of the hardware depicted in FIGS.1-2. Also, the processes of the illustrative embodiments may be appliedto a multiprocessor data processing system.

In some illustrative examples, data processing system 200 may be apersonal digital assistant (PDA), which is generally configured withflash memory to provide non-volatile memory for storing operating systemfiles and/or user-generated data. A bus system may be comprised of oneor more buses, such as a system bus, an I/O bus and a PCI bus. Of coursethe bus system may be implemented using any type of communicationsfabric or architecture that provides for a transfer of data betweendifferent components or devices attached to the fabric or architecture.A communications unit may include one or more devices used to transmitand receive data, such as a modem or a network adapter. A memory may be,for example, main memory 208 or a cache such as found in north bridgeand memory controller hub 202. A processing unit may include one or moreprocessors or CPUs. The depicted examples in FIGS. 1-2 andabove-described examples are not meant to imply architecturallimitations. For example, data processing system 200 also may be atablet computer, laptop computer, or telephone device in addition totaking the form of a PDA.

The illustrative embodiments provide a computer implemented method,apparatus, and computer usable program code for delivering training to aclient organization. In an illustrative embodiment, a databaseapplication is used to provide a Roll Out Strategy Analysis (ROSA). ARoll Out Strategy Analysis is a process for performing a large traininginitiative, project, or effort. A Roll Out Strategy Analysis approach isappropriate in any environment in which there is a relative degree ofchange from one way of doing business to another, such as with theimplementation of a new point of sales, accounting, warehousing system,or with restructuring of an organizational structure that may requirepersonnel or other employees to learn new job role activities. In theseexamples, the database application may be used by a consultant, in-houseemployee, or other individual internally within the organization orexternally as contracted.

The database application provides a methodology for professionallydeveloping a Roll Out Strategy Analysis even without all of the skillsor experience typically required for such a process. By using thedatabase application, the client is provided a roadmap for the traininginitiative, training development resource and cost projections, andrequired technical infrastructure. The roadmap includes a projectedschedule including estimates of delivery and development times. Thetraining materials are delivered to the client based on the needs of thetraining project. The training materials are all resources, materials,and other information that may be required to effectively implement therequired training project. Additionally, the training developer maytrack the implementation of the training development and verify that theclient receives the training materials for delivery to an end user. Forexample, the client may be an electronic storage company, and the enduser may be an employee that needs to learn new billing software andprocedures that is the subject of the training project.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of a data processing system in which theillustrative embodiments may be implemented. Data processing system 300includes various components including database 302, client 304, projectmanager 306, process consultant 308, and course/content developer 310.Each component may be interconnected via a network, such as network 102of FIG. 1.

Database 302 is a database, storing information regarding the Roll OutStrategy Analysis (ROSA) for the training project. Database 302 may bestored in storage 108 of FIG. 1. Client 304, project manager 306,process consultant 308, and course/content developer 310 may be clients,such as clients 110, 112, and 114 of FIG. 1. Each client device mayexecute or otherwise use database application 312 to access Roll OutStrategy Analysis database 302.

In the depicted examples, database application 312 is a user friendlytool that walks the user through the Roll Out Strategy Analysis in astep-by-step sequence. The user of database application 312 need nothave a mastery of the skills sets typically required for a trainingproject because of the automatic sequencing implemented by databaseapplication 312. Database application 312 allows the user to fully usethe Roll Out Strategy Analysis. Database application 312 allows theimport and export of database 302 content at various stages for off-linework and collaboration, development of a training curriculum based onthe completed training analysis, a development time estimator to assistthe consultant in determining the work effort required to develop theprescribed training, a development progress tracker, and phase/stepspecific reports for analysis development and client presentations.

In an illustrative embodiment, database application 312, accessible byproject manager 306, may also include resource planning information anda resource planning feature that is a module of database application312. Resource planning information provides necessary developmentresources to satisfy the estimated development time established by theRoll Out Strategy Analysis training analysis and a final trainingcurriculum.

In some cases, control of database application 312 may be managed by aclient organization. In such a case, project manager 306, a consultant,or separate internal group, may not want all potential users to haveaccess to potentially sensitive information. Particularly, the resourceplanning information accessible exclusively by project manager 306 mayprovide resource rate, billing, proprietary, or other businessinformation that a consultant may not want accessible to the clientorganization. Access to resource planning information may be configuredin a resource planning feature to allow only specified individuals basedon a password, encryption, or other secure data accessing methods andprocedures.

Database application 312 provides many benefits to individuals involvedin a training project including: improved estimation of the scope andsize of the training project, speedier development of a blended trainingsolution for the client, decreased training development time due toimproved planning and analysis, decreases in the time required forcompetency of individuals being trained, more accurate total planningvalues and costs, automatic application of standard formulas to providethe total planning values, and increased client confidence that thetraining solution matches the job processes. The scope of any trainingeffort is the overall size and shape of the task including how manytasks/topics, lessons, courses, curriculums and personnel are to betaught, how long it will likely take the training to be developed, andhow long it will take for the training to be delivered. As described,curriculums are the broadest training organization. Additionally,curriculums are composed of courses, courses are composed of lessons,and lessons are composed of topics.

A blended training solution is a combination of more than one deliverymethod. A typical blending will include web-based training elements in aclassroom environment. The planning values are figures which refer tothe number of resources required to develop training programs and thecost associated with retaining those resources. Total planning valuesare used as a resource planning activity intended to help determine thenecessary size of the development team over a specific period of timefor a specific cost. Standard formulas are formulas embedded intodatabase application 312 intended to reduce the risk of “human error”.

Additionally, using database application 312 decreases the margin oferror, involves the client in the analysis and planning stages of thetraining project, reduces future scope and budget changes to theproject, and ensures a proper governance structure for trainingdevelopment and delivery.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a Roll Out Strategy Analysis databaseapplication in accordance with the illustrative embodiments. Databaseapplication 400 includes various modules that may be used to walk anapplication user through the training project. Each module may representa phase and steps in the sequence used by database application 400 forwalking a user through the training project.

Phases include set-up 402, SME functions 404, curriculum 406, estimator408, resource planner 410, and development tracker 412. Steps includeproject definition 414, resources 416, critical factors 418, criticalfactors scale 420, training strategies 422, strategy grid 424, job roles426, job tasks 428, job tasks assigned to roles 430, job task evaluation432, lessons 434, courses 436, curriculums 438, job roles to curriculums440, development time 442, modify development time 444, resource planner446, and record progress 448.

Project definition 414 captures project-specific information includinggoals and anticipated outcomes. In one example, a goal may be the amountof time required for all permanent staff to be fully trained on a newdata access program. Resources 416 is the resource documentationincluding a list created to track the individuals working on thetraining project. Resources 416 may include an engagement manager,client representative, project manager, developer, and subject matterexpert. Each of these individuals are resources for the clientorganization.

Critical factors 418 identify the three most appropriate criticalfactors for the project analysis. Critical factors 418 may includedeterminations such as how the task is dependent on other tasks, howdifficult the task is to learn, how difficult the task is to perform,how important the task is to your job, and how often the task isimplemented. Critical factors 418 may also include questions regarding arequired level of expertise, such as what is the degree of change fromold to new for the task, what is the impact of making a mistake, andwhat is the likelihood that someone will make a mistake? Criticalfactors scale 420 allows the user to customize or modify the defaultrating scale values to appropriately answer the selected criticalfactors of critical factors 418. For example, with regard to a criticalfactor, such as how often is the task is implemented, critical factorscale 420 may specify the task is performed daily, weekly, monthly,quarterly, and yearly. With regard to how difficult the task is tolearn, critical factor scale 420 may include not difficult tounderstand, requires extra thought, skill, or effort, and requiresrigorous concentration to assimilate. Critical factor scale 420 fordetermining the impact of a mistake, may include not likely, notserious, simply redo task, significant effort to correct problem, andregulatory or safety consequences.

Training strategies 422 allow the user to customize or modify thedefault training strategy descriptions to match project and clientneeds. Strategy grid 424 allows the user to associate the criticalfactor rating permutations with a recommended training strategy ortraining strategy groupings to create training strategy recommendations.

Job roles 426 is a list created to document the varying job roles. Jobtasks 428 is a list created to document the varying job tasks. Job tasksassigned to roles 430 align job tasks 428 to job roles 426 to createpairings. In database application 400, a pairing is an association ofone data element with another data element. For example, the “F-04_Postwith Clearing” job task may be paired with the “Accounting Supervisor”as well as with the “Accounts Payable” job roles. Job task evaluation432 performs a collaborative effort to match job role titles torecommended training strategy or training strategy groupings bydetermining appropriate responses to the three critical factor questionsfor each job task.

Lessons 434 allow the user to build lessons from topics, identifytraining types, and modify topic delivery times and complexity ratings.A lesson is a logical grouping of topics or a collection of topics thatwill instruct in the specifics of a particular topic. For example, alesson may be devoted to training regarding accounts payable. The topicswithin the lesson may include training for account clearing, executingpayments, issuing credit, issuing debits, paying invoices, and end ofperiod processing. A lesson on controlling may include topics such asanalyze reports, publish reporting results, run reports, and runselected financial reports. A training type refers to the deliverymethod, including for example, instructor-led training, web-basedtraining, or virtual classrooms. Topic delivery time is the estimatedamount of time it should take to deliver a given topic. When severaltopics are included in a lesson, the topic delivery times may be summedto arrive at the estimated length of the lesson. When several lessonsare included in a course, the lesson delivery times may be summed toarrive at the estimated length of the course. When several courses areincluded in a curriculum, the course delivery times may be summed toarrive at the estimated length of the curriculum.

Courses 436 allow the user to build and document courses from eachlesson. A course is a logical grouping of topics or a collection oftopics that instruct in the specifics of a particular topic. Forexample, a controlling course may include lessons such as controllingoverview, profit accounting, cost accounting, and overhead accounting. Acourse on financial accounting may include lessons, such as financingaccounting overview, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.Curriculums 438 allow the user to build and document curriculums fromcourses. Curriculums 438 is the logical grouping or a collection ofcourses that make up a training requirement for specific personnel jobrole types. For example, a curriculum may include manager training forintroducing an employee or manager to project management. Job roles tocurriculums 440 matches up training materials to job titles. Forexample, a person charged to document invoices using optical characterrecognition may need to be trained on the scanning software.

Development time 442 allows the user to enter custom development timefactors to adjust for changing project conditions. Modify developmenttime 444 allows the user to adjust the development of any individualtopic. Resource planner 446 allows the user to track and plan forresource usage through the training development. Development tracker 412is used to track and verify that the client receives the trainingmaterials necessary to implement the training project. For example,development tracker 412 may ensure that qualified instructors have theknow-how and materials to teach a group of fifteen employees of theclient organization. Record progress 448 allows the user to enter thepercentages completed and the total hours spent in development for eachtopic as with respect to lessons.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart for Roll Out Strategy Analysis process steps inaccordance with the illustrative embodiments. The process of FIG. 5 maybe implemented by database application 312 by accessing database 302both of FIG. 3.

The process begins by validating and defining requirements (step 502).In step 502 the user may use the database application to validate and/ordefine the training delivery requirements for the learning solution andgather assessment information at the beginning of the training project.The training delivery requirements are the requirements for implementingthe training for the client and individual end users or employees. Forexample, training delivery requirements may specify a deadline for thetraining, the number of individuals that must be trained, and theavailable budget. Assessment information is an approach and theinformation used to gather client requirements to help a consulting teambetter formulate delivery methods for the final solution.

Next, the database application gathers assessment information (step504). For example, assessment information may specify the number ofemployees familiar with computer programs, times available for training,and preferred forms of training delivery. Next, the database applicationdevelops Roll Out Strategy Analysis (step 506). The Roll Out StrategyAnalysis or project training is developed based on input from the clientor customer organization.

Next, the process generates Roll Out Strategy Analysis results andrecommendations (step 508) with the process terminating thereafter. Theresults and recommendations from step 508 are used to: document thescope of the to-be-developed modular blended learning content,align/re-align learning solution priorities as required, continuouslyaugment the learning roadmaps for each learner group/job role, andenhance strategic business impact of the learning solution to individualjob role and job task performance. Solution priorities are a balance ofpriorities used to determine a feasible training solution based onfactors, such as available time, budget, and resources.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for a general Roll Out Strategy Analysis processin accordance with the illustrative embodiments. The process of FIG. 6may be implemented by database application 312 by accessing database 302both of FIG. 3. Particularly, the process of FIG. 6 corresponds to thephases described in database application 400 of FIG. 4.

The process begins by beginning setup (step 602). Setup may be performedby a module, such as setup 402 of FIG. 4. Next, the database applicationperforms organization functions (step 604). Organization functions maybe performed by a module, such as SME functions 404 of FIG. 4. Next, thedatabase application develops the curriculum (step 606). Curriculum isdeveloped by a module, such as curriculum 406 of FIG. 4. Next, thedatabase application provides development estimations (step 608).Development estimations may be performed by a module such as estimator408 of FIG. 4. Next, the database application tracks development (step610) with the process terminating thereafter. Development tracking maybe performed by a module, such as development tracker 412 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for a process for setting up a training project inaccordance with the illustrative embodiments. The process of FIG. 7 maybe implemented by database application 312 by accessing database 302both of FIG. 3. Particularly, the process of FIG. 7 corresponds to thesteps described under setup 402 phase/module of database application 400of FIG. 4.

The process begins by first defining the project definition (step 702).Next, the database application documents resources (step 704). Next, thedatabase application identifies critical factors (step 706). Next, thedatabase application customizes a critical factor rating scale (step708). Next, the database application customizes training strategydescriptions (step 710). Next, the database application customizes astrategy grid (step 712) with the process terminating thereafter.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for a process for performing organizationfunctions in accordance with the illustrative embodiments. The processof FIG. 8 may be implemented by database application 312 by accessingdatabase 302 both of FIG. 3. Particularly, the process of FIG. 8corresponds to the steps described under SME functions 404 phase/moduleof database application 400 of FIG. 4.

The process of FIG. 8 begins by documenting job roles (step 802). Next,the database application documents job tasks (step 804). Next, thedatabase application creates job role/job task pairings (step 806).Next, the database application performs job task evaluation (step 808)with the process terminating thereafter.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for a process for developing curriculum inaccordance with the illustrative embodiments. The process of FIG. 9 maybe implemented by database application 312 by accessing database 302both of FIG. 3. Particularly, the process of FIG. 9 corresponds to thesteps described under curriculum 406 phase/module of databaseapplication 400 of FIG. 4.

The process of FIG. 9 begins by documenting lessons (step 902). Next,the database application documents courses and course descriptions (step904). Next, the database application documents curriculums andcurriculum descriptions (step 906). Next, the database applicationperforms job role to curriculum pairings (step 908) with the processterminating thereafter.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart for a process for providing developmentestimations in accordance with the illustrative embodiments. The processof FIG. 10 may be implemented by database application 312 by accessingdatabase 302 both of FIG. 3. Particularly, the process of FIG. 10corresponds to the steps described under estimator 408 phase/module ofdatabase application 400 of FIG. 4.

The process of FIG. 10 begins by customizing development time factors(step 1002). Next, the database application modifies individualdevelopment times (step 1004) with the process terminating thereafter.

FIG. 11A is a diagram of a graphical user interface for a trainingproject database application in accordance with the illustrativeembodiments. Display 1100 may include various visual components,including for example, window 1102 and window 1104. Windows 1102 and1104 include information that may be displayed to a user to develop,modify, and implement the training project. Windows 1102 and 1104 may bedisplayed by database application 400 of FIG. 4 or client 304 of FIG. 3.

Display 1100 is an example of a graphical user interface that may beused by implementing a training project. Windows 1102 and 1104 mayinclude icons, buttons, lists, drop down menus, and other visual meansto enter and view information. Window 1104 may be used to navigate thephases and steps of the training project as described by databaseapplication 400 of FIG. 4. In window 1104, the user may move to a phaseor step by selecting a desired action within the database application.Window 1102 may be used to enter information for database 302 throughdatabase application 312 both of FIG. 3. Window 1102 may also be used todisplay training project information to a user.

Window 1104 of FIG. 11A is an example of a graphical user interface thatmay be used by a business or consultant to perform administrativefunctions. Section 1106 allows the user to perform administrative tasks,such as logon and password administration, compact and repair thedatabase, backup the database, and database initialization. The user mayuse section 1108 for importing spreadsheets for the training project. Inone example, the user may import a strategy grid, job roles, a tasklist, or a job task evaluation. As a result, work and effort for thetraining project may be performed offline at the convenience of the userand then later imported.

Section 1110 provides miscellaneous functions such as appending all jobtasks to job roles and creating lessons from the training analysis. Anexemplary list of job roles and associated job tasks is shown in FIG.12. The user may use section 1112 of window 1102 to edit tables,resources, resource types, process areas, affiliations, industry lists,critical factors, job roles, job tasks, lessons, courses, curriculums,and define percentages.

Window 1102 of FIG. 11B is an example of a graphical user interface thatmay be used to customize a critical factor rating scale in accordancewith the illustrative embodiments. The graphical user interface may beused to customize critical factors scale 420 of FIG. 4. In section 1114,the user may provide a written description specifying how often a taskis implemented. In section 1116, the user may provide a writtendescription specifying how difficult the task is to learn. In section1118, the user may provide a written description specifying the impactof making a mistake. Each of the critical factors used in sections 1114,1116, and 1118 affect the time required, skills needed, individualtraining required for the task, as well as other considerations fordevelopment, planning, and implementation.

Window 1102 of FIG. 11C is an example of a graphical user interface thatmay be used to customize training delivery strategies in accordance withthe illustrative embodiments. Different training delivery solutionsdepend on the specified task. For example, in some cases, a person thatis being trained may only need a quick reference guide. In other cases,the complexity of the task may require specific process training,web-based training, and instructor led training. In section 1102, theuser may customize the title, duration, and definition or description ofeach training delivery strategy to best fit the environment and needs ofthe organization to be trained. The title may specify the title of thetraining delivery method or type. The duration may be used to indicate aprobable training time required to complete or deliver the training inminutes. The description is a written explanation describing thefunction, feature, tasks, or process. Section 1102 defines individualdelivery strategies.

Sections 1120, 1122, and 1124 describe increasingly more involvedtraining delivery requirements. In the exemplary text of section 1120,the first training strategy does not require training or support for thefunction, feature, or task to be performed. The exemplary text ofsection 1122 specifies that the task may require a quick reference guidebut no formal training. The exemplary text of section 1124 specifiesthat the task requires process training that may include text, graphics,video demonstrations, sample tasks, and other reinforcement activities.

Window 1102 of FIG. 11D is an example of a graphical user interface thatmay be used to customize the strategy grid in accordance with theillustrative embodiments. The strategy grid may be strategy grid 424 ofFIG. 4. Another exemplary strategy grid is shown in FIGS. 14A-14B.Section 1126 may allow a user to select to open the strategy grid inorder to modify or otherwise configure the strategy grid, export thestrategy grid, and create a strategy grid reference sheet.

Window 1102 of FIG. 11E is an example of a graphical user interface thatmay be used to establish development time values in accordance with theillustrative embodiments. The development times may be development time442 of FIG. 4. Default development times 1130 are the estimated numberof hours needed to develop a single hour of delivered training. Defaultdevelopment times 1130 may not be modified, but custom development times1132 may be used to override default development times 1130 in anycalculations where the development time is used, based on the discretionof the user. For example, if default development times 1130 may not beapplicable for an organization in which the employees rarely usecomputers and may need additional time for computer training.

Window 1102 of FIG. 11F is an example of a graphical user interface thatmay be used to determine resource requirements in accordance with theillustrative embodiments. Resource requirements may be part of resourceplanner 446 of FIG. 4. Section 1134 may be used to specify the number ofresources, total weekly rate, and total resource cost. Section 1136 maybe used to specify the number of weeks and the number of hours. Thedetails from sections 1134 and 1136 may be further illustrated in table1138. Table 1138 may further specify the resource title, band, rate,quantity, duration, total hours, weekly rate, and total cost. Band isthe grade level of an employee, similar to the federal grade level. Banddefines responsibilities, expectations, abilities, skills, and so forth.Band may be used to determine what type of training may be required tobring an individual to a desired level of competency. For example,individuals with higher bands should require less training and have moreknowledge of the systems and methods of the organization.

Window 1102 of FIG. 11G is an example of a graphical user interface thatmay be used to generate reports for the phases and steps of a trainingproject in accordance with the illustrative embodiments. Particularly,window 1102 may be used to generate a series of reports that documentthe curriculum development at the topic, lesson and course levels, andprovide development time estimations at these same levels.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary list of job roles and job tasks in accordancewith the illustrative embodiments. List 1200 includes columns 1202 and1204. Column 1202 lists job roles for the managerial account supervisor,accounting supervisor, accounts payable, and the budge analysis. Column1204 lists the associated job tasks.

FIGS. 13A-13B are exemplary lists of training strategies in accordancewith the illustrative embodiments. List 1300 includes columns 1302,1304, 1306, and 1308 for defining the training strategies. Column 1302details an abbreviation for the training strategy title. Column 1304 isthe descriptive title of the training strategy. Column 1306 is anestimated duration to complete the training. Column 1308 is adescription of the training strategy including the trainingrequirements, user interaction, and difficulty level. Columns 1302,1304, 1306, and 1308 may be customized as needed.

FIGS. 14A-14B are exemplary strategy grids in accordance with theillustrative embodiments. Strategy grid 1400 may be customized usinggraphical user interface 1100 of FIG. 11C. Strategy grid 1400 describesmapped relationships defining how a task should be trained based on theanswer to the critical factors for each task. For example, the threecritical factors may include: 1. How often is this task implemented?, 2.How difficult is this task to learn?, and 3. What is the impact ofmaking a mistake?. Possibility map 1402 is the mapped results of theresponses to the critical factors for determining the appropriatedelivery method. The first number of possibility map 1402 refers tocritical factor one, the second number refers to critical factor two,and the third number refers to critical factors three. With threepossible outcomes to each critical factor, the mapped relationships ofpossibility map 1402 include twenty seven total possible outcomes.

Strategy grid 1400 shows how tasks 1404 should be trained according topossibility map 1402. Strategy grid 1400 may be used after defining jobroles and job task to combine training strategies based on the answersto the critical factors indicated by possibility map 1402. Tasks 1404may be combined based on possibility map 1402 for improved efficiency.

Thus, the illustrative embodiments provide a computer implementedmethod, apparatus, and computer usable program code for deliveringtraining to a client organization. The database application may be usedto effectively manage, monitor, and review a training project frominception through completed development. As a result, data is moreeffectively organized and the training project may be performed muchmore efficiently.

The invention can take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, anentirely software embodiment or an embodiment containing both hardwareand software elements. In a preferred embodiment, the invention isimplemented in software, which includes but is not limited to firmware,resident software, microcode, etc.

Furthermore, the invention can take the form of a computer programproduct accessible from a computer-usable or computer-readable mediumproviding program code for use by or in connection with a computer orany instruction execution system. For the purposes of this description,a computer-usable or computer readable medium can be any tangibleapparatus that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transportthe program for use by or in connection with the instruction executionsystem, apparatus, or device.

The medium can be an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic,infrared, or semiconductor system (or apparatus or device) or apropagation medium. Examples of a computer-readable medium include asemiconductor or solid state memory, magnetic tape, a removable computerdiskette, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), arigid magnetic disk and an optical disk. Current examples of opticaldisks include compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM), compactdisk-read/write (CD-R/W) and DVD.

A data processing system suitable for storing and/or executing programcode will include at least one processor coupled directly or indirectlyto memory elements through a system bus. The memory elements can includelocal memory employed during actual execution of the program code, bulkstorage, and cache memories which provide temporary storage of at leastsome program code in order to reduce the number of times code must beretrieved from bulk storage during execution.

Input/output or I/O devices (including but not limited to keyboards,displays, pointing devices, etc.) can be coupled to the system eitherdirectly or through intervening I/O controllers.

Network adapters may also be coupled to the system to enable the dataprocessing system to become coupled to other data processing systems orremote printers or storage devices through intervening private or publicnetworks. Modems, cable modem and Ethernet cards are just a few of thecurrently available types of network adapters.

The description of the present invention has been presented for purposesof illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive orlimited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications andvariations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Theembodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain theprinciples of the invention, the practical application, and to enableothers of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention forvarious embodiments with various modifications as are suited to theparticular use contemplated.

1. A computer implemented method for developing training for a client,the computer implemented method being executed by a computer andcomprising steps of: the computer identifying training deliveryrequirements for the client; the computer gathering assessmentinformation; the computer developing a training curriculum based on thetraining delivery requirements and the assessment information; thecomputer estimating an amount of time required to complete the trainingto form a delivery estimate; the computer translating the deliveryestimate into an estimate of resources required for development oftraining materials for the training; and the computer verifying that theclient receives the training materials for delivery to an end user. 2.The computer implemented method of claim 1, further comprising: thecomputer tracking development, implementation, and delivery of thetraining; and wherein the gathering step further comprises: the computerdetermining the training delivery requirements.
 3. The computerimplemented method of claim 1, wherein the identifying step furthercomprises: the computer defining the training delivery requirements; andthe computer validating the training delivery requirements.
 4. Thecomputer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the training deliveredto the client is for a new technology being implemented by the client.5. The computer implemented method of claim 1, wherein the training is atraining project.
 6. The computer implemented method of claim 1, whereinthe identifying, gathering, developing, estimating, translating, andverifying steps are performed by a database application executing on thecomputer that accesses a remote database via a network.
 7. The computerimplemented method of claim 5, wherein the training project is performedin phases.
 8. The computer implemented method of claim 7, wherein thephases are performed in steps.
 9. The computer implemented method ofclaim 6, wherein the database application prompts a user to enterinformation for performing planning, development, implementation, andtracking of a training project.
 10. The computer implemented method ofclaim 6, wherein the database application facilitates a user inperforming a roll out strategy analysis (ROSA).
 11. The computerimplemented method of claim 6, further comprising: the computerimporting database content from the remote database for allowingoff-line work and collaboration of the database content by the databaseapplication executing on the computer, wherein the database contentcomprises at least one of a strategy grid, job roles, a task list, and ajob task evaluation.
 12. The computer implemented method of claim 11,wherein the database content comprises the strategy grid, wherein thestrategy grid describes mapped relationships defining how a given taskshould be trained based on a plurality of critical factors defined forthe given task via the strategy grid presented on a graphical userinterface.
 13. A data processing system comprising: a database forstoring information regarding a training project; and a plurality ofclients operably connected to the database, wherein the plurality ofclients execute a database application, wherein the database applicationdefines and validates training delivery requirements for anorganization, gathers assessment information, develops a trainingcurriculum based on the training delivery requirements and theassessment information, estimates an amount of time required to completethe training to form a delivery estimate, translates the deliveryestimate into an estimate of resources required for development oftraining materials, tracks implementation of the development, andverifies that the organization receives the training materials fordelivery to an end user.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein at leastone of the plurality of clients executes a resource planning feature foraccessing sensitive information, wherein the resource planning featureis only accessible by specified individuals.
 15. The system of claim 13,wherein the database application tracks development, implementation, anddelivery of the training, and determines the training deliveryrequirements.
 16. A computer program product comprising a non-transitorycomputer usable medium including computer usable program code fordeveloping training for the client, the computer program productcomprising: computer usable program code for identifying trainingdelivering requirements for a client; computer usable program code forgathering assessment information; computer usable program code fordeveloping a training curriculum based on the training deliveryrequirements and the assessment information; computer usable programcode for estimating an amount of time required to complete the trainingto form a delivery estimate; computer usable program code fortranslating the delivery estimate into an estimate of resources requiredfor development of training materials for the training; and computerusable program code for verifying that the client receives the trainingmaterials for delivery to an end user.
 17. The computer program productof claim 16, comprising: computer usable program code for determiningthe training delivery requirements; and computer usable program code fortracking development, implementation, and delivery of the training. 18.The computer program product of claim 16, further comprising: computerusable program code for defining the training delivery requirements; andcomputer usable program code for validating the training deliveryrequirements.
 19. The computer program product of claim 16, comprisingcomputer usable program code for generating reports about implementationof phases of the training.
 20. The computer program product of claim 16,wherein the training is developed by a database application for ensuringthat the client receives the training materials for delivery to endusers.